A panel of judges whittled the entries down to a shortlist of 14 schools which attended a ceremony at Thinktank yesterday compered by Heart presenter Ed James. The big winner was the coveted School of the Year which was scooped by Greenholm School in Great Barr – one of its two awards.

Other top awards were Headteacher of the Year, which was won by Simon Dix from Hollywood Primary School, and the Inspirational Teacher, which went to Yardley Wood Community Primary School’s Rita Mills.

The awards, supported by The Pallasades, are now in their fourth year and reward, not just staff, but also pupils and school projects.

The other winners were:

* School newspaper/website – Small Heath School.

*Healthy living – Conway Primary School in Sparkbrook.

* School support staff – Pat Howell from Baskerville School.

* Active community award – Alderbrook School.

* Go Green award – Greenholm School.

Simon Dix was voted Headteacher of the Year for his work in turning around the fortunes of Hollywood Primary School when he took over as acting head two years ago.

His efforts completely transformed the school and he impressed the board of governors so much they recently made him permanent headteacher ahead of 30 other applicants.

Mr Dix said: “It’s a great feeling to have won, but I feel pleased for the school and its parents and staff who have been right behind me from day one.

“I couldn’t have done it without their support.”

Inspirational teacher, Rita Mills, was chosen because of all the charity work she has encouraged her staff and pupils to do, raising over £3,000 to date.

“It’s such an honour to get this award, I had no idea I’d been nominated and only knew when the staff gave me a copy of the Birmingham Mail and I saw my name in it!”

Birmingham Mail editor-in-chief Dave Brookes said he was delighted to be involved with the awards.

“It is clear that our schools are overflowing with dedicated teams of inspirational staff and children,” he said.

Jonathan Cheetham, general manager of the Pallasades, said: “As we develop our new centre we will continue to support the community in which we sit.

“This is why we are delighted to be involved once again with such a positive initiative as the Birmingham Mail Schools Awards.”

A full report and pictures will be in the Mail on Tuesday, December 13.